Prep Cook Salary in Hawthorne, CA
Prep Cooks in Hawthorne, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.43 per hour, which translates to about $737.20 per week, $3,194.53 per month, and $38,334.40 per year.
The employment outlook for Prep Cooks in Hawthorne is positive, with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for food preparation workers in this bustling culinary market.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Hawthorne, CA?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Hawthorne varies based on experience and employer type. Below is the typical pay scale across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.43 | $737.20 | $3,194.53 | $38,334.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.92 | $876.80 | $3,788.53 | $45,593.60 |
Do Prep Cooks in Hawthorne Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks typically do not earn tips since their role is primarily behind the scenes, assisting chefs and kitchen staff with food preparation rather than direct customer service.
Prep Cook Salary in Hawthorne vs. National Average
Across the United States, Prep Cooks earn an average hourly wage of about $16.75 and an annual salary near $34,840.
Compared to the national figures, Prep Cooks in Hawthorne make a higher wage, with an hourly rate of $18.43 and an annual salary of approximately $38,334.40.
This boost in salary likely reflects the higher cost of living in California and the area's demand for skilled food preparation staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hawthorne for Prep Cooks
Nearby regions offer similar pay rates for Prep Cooks, including:
- Del Aire: $18.43 per hour
For those willing to commute or relocate slightly, Del Aire stands out as a location providing equal pay with potential for growth.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Hawthorne?
A variety of factors can impact how much a Prep Cook earns in Hawthorne, CA. Key considerations include:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Prep Cooks with strong knife skills and knowledge of kitchen operations tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and large catering companies often offer better pay compared to fast food or casual dining.
- Certifications: Having certifications like food safety or ServSafe credentials can boost employability and salary.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts or weekends sometimes comes with added pay differentials.
- Local Demand: The busy food scene in Hawthorne coupled with a dense population keeps demand high, positively influencing pay levels.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Hawthorne
To establish a career as a Prep Cook in Hawthorne, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College provide hands-on experience in culinary techniques and kitchen management.
- Enroll in Specialized Courses: The Culinary Arts Program at The Art Institute of California – Los Angeles covers essential skills from cooking methods to nutrition, preparing students for their kitchen roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the California Food Handler Card are typically mandatory for safe food handling and employment.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in busy kitchens help develop practical skills and build a resume.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Hawthorne
Some of the key employers actively seeking Prep Cooks in the Hawthorne area include:
- DoubleTree by Hilton
- North Italia
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Hawthorne Work At
Prep Cooks typically find employment at a variety of establishments such as:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These often have high turnover but offer steady hours, usually with lower wages.
- Casual Dining: Establishments like Olive Garden offer moderate wages with potential for growth and tips indirectly through the kitchen structure.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Places like DoubleTree by Hilton offer higher pay and benefits due to larger scale operations.
- Specialty and Fine Dining: These venues offer the highest salary potential for Prep Cooks equipped with refined skills and experience.
The type of establishment significantly influences the salary, with upscale and large-volume kitchens tending to pay better.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hawthorne for Prep Cooks
If you're exploring similar careers to Prep Cook, there are several roles within the hospitality industry that align closely in duties and salary potential.
These positions include Fry Cook, Cook, and Kitchen Porter, all of which share responsibilities in kitchen food preparation and maintenance.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Hawthorne
Prep Cooks in Hawthorne need to be informed about the labor laws and tax regulations applicable to their roles.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- For state employment services, unemployment benefits, and tax information, consult the California Employment Development Department.
- Federal labor laws and wage standards are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor.